Temperatures Could Hit 100, Excessive Heat Warning Issued

It's been very hot all week, and while it looks like next week will start off a bit cooler, there is an "excessive heat warning" Friday as temperatures could soar to 100 degrees.

The National Weather Service says the July 19 high is 100, but with the humidity, it could feel as hot as anywhere between 105 and 109 degrees. Temperatures are expected to peak around 3:30 p.m.

According to NWS, "An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely." 

Cooling centers were opened around the state on Monday and Tuesday, offering a place for heat-stricken residents to cool off and recharge. The Merrimack Public Library was designated as a cooling station in town and is open Friday from 1-5 p.m. The library is open Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The excessive heat warning is in effect from 1-7 p.m.

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services earlier this week reminded people in periods of high heat like this, to limit outdoor exposure, especially in the middle of the day, and to keep hydrated, drinking plenty of fluids but staying away from caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar. Any outdoor exercise should be done early in the morning or late in the evening.

According to DHHS: 

When  the  body is unable to cool itself sufficiently by sweating, the body temperature  rises  and  people  begin  to  experience symptoms indicating distress.  Cool,  moist,  pale,  or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea  or  vomiting;  dizziness;  and/or fatigue  are  symptoms  of  heat exhaustion,  which  generally  occurs when people exercise or work in hot, humid  conditions  and  body fluids  are lost. If the person does not take action,  with  cool beverages, seeking air conditioning, rest, and removing heavy clothing, heat stroke can result.

The  symptoms  of  heat  stroke  include red skin that is hot to the touch; changes  in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow breathing. The  temperature may rise dramatically and the patient’s skin may feel dry. If  someone  is  experiencing  heat stroke, they should be moved to a cool place and be cooled down with water if possible, and emergency medical help should be called immediately because heat stroke can be life threatening.

Temperatures should cool back into the high 70s by Monday. But Saturday's high is 90 while Sunday's is 80.

As this lengthy July heat wave continues, safety officials are also warning residents to remain smart about their activity in the water. Several drownings in the since the first week of July have prompted warnings about deceptive river currents and recommendations to swim at public beaches with lifeguards on duty. Read more here.